IDF to Punish Reserve Soldier for Praying at Tomb in West Bank Area B

An Israeli reserve soldier filmed praying at the tomb of Eleazar ben Aaron the Kohen in the Palestinian village of Awarta, located in Area B of the West Bank, will be investigated by his brigade commander and face disciplinary action. The decision to punish the soldier has drawn sharp criticism from settler activists.

The IDF confirmed that the soldier would be investigated and disciplined following the incident, which occurred while dozens of worshippers were present for penitential prayers. According to a report by Galei Tzahal (Army Radio), the soldier is expected to undergo questioning by his commander and receive disciplinary measures.

The IDF acknowledged that dozens of worshippers have been entering tombs of righteous figures in Area B since the start of the Selichot period, but stated that they are not currently stopping this phenomenon due to more urgent security missions in the area.

Settler activists strongly criticized the IDF's decision. Activist Ariel Danino argued that Jewish entry into Area B is a long-standing practice, with settlers entering daily for over 20 years without coordination. He pointed out that Knesset members and ministers also travel through Area B, citing the Gilad road as a main route in Samaria that passes through the area. Danino urged an end to the perception that Area B is forbidden territory for Jews.

Elisha Yared also criticized the IDF's handling of the incident, emphasizing that the site is the tomb of Eleazar ben Aaron the Kohen near Itamar, a site Jews have frequented for years. Yared asserted that there is no legal prohibition on being in Area B and that Jews have the right to visit the tombs of righteous figures, questioning why the incident warranted attention.